TASCAM Portacapture X8 32-bit float HDR Audio Recorder
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- čas přidán 22. 07. 2024
- In this week’s episode, we have a look at and listen to the Tascam Portacapture X8 32-bit float audio recorder. This hand-held sound recorder includes a set of stereo microphones (X/Y and A/B) plus 4 XLR microphone/line inputs. With its 32-bit float capabilities, it can record wide dynamic range audio and when you’re recording spoken word or singing vocals, even if the levels exceed 0dB, you can recover the audio in post production. We have a closer look at the features and performance in this extensive review.
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F6, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders. Our latest courses cover Sound for Live Streaming with the ATEM Mini and an Intro to Izotope RX. Https://school.learnlightandsound.com
Support my work creating videos by donating at Ko-Fi.com ko-fi.com/curtisjudd
Gear used or mentioned in this episode. The links below are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, Sweetwater, DVEStore, Perfect Circuit, or other affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases:
- Tascam Portacapture X8 audio recorder - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/BE098
- Tascam WS-86 fur windshield - B&H geni.us/1yN9qA
- RODE NT1 microphone - B&H, Sweetwater, Amazon geni.us/Uz0w
- AA Lithium rechargeable batteries - Amazon geni.us/gKjQ6G
- Stand - Sound Devices Pix-base stand - B&H, Amazon geni.us/Y6WXndU
- Aputure 600X LED light - Aputure, B&H, DVE Store, Amazon geni.us/EreRQa
- Impact Luxbank ENORMOUS softbox - B&H geni.us/pJEgP
- Aputure Amaran 100D - Aputure, B&H, DVE Store, Amazon geni.us/A3HByXB
- Aputure Spotlight Mount - Aputure, B&H, DVE Store. Amazon geni.us/kfAj
- Rosco Prismatic Glass Gobo Cool Lavender creates the color pattern on the back wall - B&H geni.us/GWKt
- Panasonic GH5 camera - B&H, Amazon geni.us/InspOl
- Olympus 45mm f/1.8 lens - B&H, Amazon geni.us/6cvOQ
- Canon C70 Camera - B&H geni.us/ABYB
- Canon RF 24-70 f/2.8 lens - B&H, Amazon geni.us/qwsEs
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2022, Curtis Judd
#TASCAM #Portacapture #X8
Index:
00:00 Start
00:12 Summary
00:22 Recorded with X8 and RODE NT1
01:21 4 XLR/TRS inputs
01:45 32-bit float HDR recording
02:33 Sample rates 44.1 to 192kHz
02:48 +24 or +48V phantom power
02:58 Practical noise sample
04:22 microSD cards
04:48 Included stereo microphones
05:43 3.5mm input and output
05:53 Headphone jack
06:10 In-build speaker
06:23 Bluetooth app control Android/iOS
06:51 Handling noise
07:13 Power options and performance
07:51 USB-C audio interface for computer or mobile
08:12 Pre-record
08:47 Color touch screen
09:06 Easy modes
09:39 Podcast sound pads
09:53 Effects - Low cut, limiter, compressor, EQ
10:22 Mounting options
10:36 Warranty
10:48 Plastic build
11:34 Limited dynamic range relative to other 32-bit float recorders
12:38 Recover clipped audio sample
13:59 USB Audio Interface 24-bit max
14:14 Handling noise
15:12 No redundant recording media
15:44 Reflective screen
15:56 Arm then record?
16:45 192kHz sample rate hum above 20kHz
17:23 Need windshield for outdoor recording
17:52 Price
18:05 My recommendation
20:23 ZOOM H6, H8, or Portacapture X8
24:11 Please buy my courses
This video is normalized to -23 LUFS so that I didn't have to do any post processing and so you can hear how it sounds directly out of the recorder.
Is it possible to apply internal effects such as compressors and preset effects to the audio that has been recorded on this recorder?
@@OMTEKNO While it is recording, yes.
I think you've mentioned in a few videos that - 23 LUFS is broadcast standard but - 16 LUFS is often preferred for online distribution. Any chance you could expand upon this in a future video?
@@DanielSRosehill Yes, here: czcams.com/video/nOzZKEWJ5wk/video.html
Which one has better preamps, the Tascam DR100 MKIII or the Portacapture X8?
Great coverage, Curtis! Thanks.
Thanks Gerald!
On 32 bit Float…I don’t know about anyone else, but I never thought I’d see the day when you could record something with clipping or really low and still be able to adjust to make it sound good. Blows my mind.
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Always love a new Curtis Judd video! Thanks for making these videos, really helps to find what gear to get and just fun getting knowledge on things
Thanks Kyle.
I brought it two weeks ago. I was waiting for this review. I like the interface and ease of use. It's a great piece of kit.
👍 Glad it works well for you!
im having trouble using this as an interface for Cubase. I see all the channels in the input selection but when I hit record, there's no signal. may you please explain?
@@AlternativeKava Probably best to contact Tascam support for help. Best wishes!
I've had the DR100 MK3 for a couple years now and have not been disappointed. It has worked well even under fairly rough conditions, including heavy costal moisture in the air.
Thanks for sharing, Ernie!
Curtis I appreciate this. Here are some things I like (in no particular order)
1.) The notes at the beginning. Specifically the timing of them, like you understand that I can pause it if I need to which is great.
2.) Colors, I watch these at night sometimes and you keep the colors....gentle on my eyes
3.) You're cadence and voice. It's accurate, paced properly, clear, concise, relevant, and human.
4.) The info. You give us exactly what we need to know.
5.) Kindness. I see you pop up on other channels to comment sometimes and it's always kind, supportive, and makes me happy.
6.) Honesty honesty honesty. You tell it like it is.
7.) Have a great day man. Thanks for doing what you do. We random humans are ACTUAL humans that ACTUALLY appreciate you! Haha be well.
Thanks Geodesic Interpolation!
PS - Do you so some sort of cartography or Geosciences work? Curious based on the name...
Man! Did you have to say it all? You stole all of my thoughts. I've been learning from Curtis since 2018. Much love Sir, you've helped me greatly.
Just got the X8 and really enjoying it thus far. Coming from a mixpre 6-ii, the large touchscreen and easy to navigate UI is a godsend. As Curtis points out, the flexibility/versatility is probably what is the best thing about the X8.
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Does it sound as good as mixpre though there preamps are amazing
Wow! What a great review as always. Thanks so very much!!! :D
Thanks so much!
Easily the best review I've seen for this product (and similar). Thanks so much!
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Nice! I love it! I'm addicted to taking high quality audio samples of more than just speech. I really like this channel! Subscribed. Great video!
Thanks Luke and happy recording!
Bought a Tascam Portacapture X8 on the strength of this clear and comprehensive review! Thanks, Curtis.
Happy recording!
Your review is by far the best and most elaborated with detailed explanation. Now waiting for your Zoom F8n Pro review and workflow because i am gonna have one next month :D
I have the F8n on pre-order so hoping to do that review soon.
You're great reviewer.... Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences... It's appreciated
My pleasure! Thanks!
Very detailed review - nice work Curtis!
Thanks David.
Excellent review, thanks for the attention to detail.
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Thanks for another great review, Mr Judd.
Thanks Nik.
20:24 You are amazing. That question was literally in my head and I was about to write that question in the comments. Great efforts, well appreciated.
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Thanks Curtis for this review. Definitely not wasting my time or money on this device. Nice review.
Thanks Johnny.
There are many reasons why yours is an excellent review but let me comment on one aspect. The lighting and product presentation is the best in the business. The colorful background, controlled depth of field combined with high res image and sharp focus make a very engaging video.
Thanks Allen.
hahah, I love the expression when discussing the price. Thanks for another great review.
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This was very helpful, thank you Curtis
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im really waiting for this video. I have heard a lot of problems of the Portacapture X8 and I was waiting for your review to make a good decision.
I hope it was helpful.
Great video, clear and concise, thanks and just subscribed 👍
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I like how you included a bit of musical use for this recorder Curtis. I won't be a buyer for this new Tascam recorder but it's a good trend to see 32 bit float recording now available in these consumer type recorders with onboard mic capsules. I use and love the Zoom F6 these days and have the H6 in my bag as backup when I'm recording my concerts. Thanks for the great video again!
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Good choice! I have the same two recorders (and the F8n but will soon upgrade to F8n pro)
Nice in depth review as always! Side note, love the edit at 18:03 😆
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Very informative video - Thank you Curtis.
Thanks Peter.
Really powerful content. Thank you.
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Excellent review and tips. Mine just came so I can record quality audio and use in tracks later on.
👍 Happy recording!
I was waiting for your review. I ordered it anyway for the 32bit and UI has great options. I say it's real weakness is it's main selling factor is the screen breaking also expensive. I don't have a high quality audio solution I had the DR 60 that I loved but this device covers alot of ground fast with presets. Thanks
Happy recording!
Love your videos - keep up the good work -
Thanks Michael.
I've been waiting/hoping you would do a review of this as there are not that many quality reviews out there for this recorder. I've been seriously considering getting this unit since it was announced but there seemed to be a a lot of minor bugs with it and I couldn't decide between this and the Sony PCM-D10. The Sony interface isn't as fancy as the Tascam but Sonys just seem to work. Thanks for the review.
You're welcome and happy recording to you!
Thanks Curtis. Appreciate the vid. 👍💯
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I have a number of both Tascam and Zoom recorders in my studio and remote equipment collection and I recently added the Zoom H8 to my larder. What tipped the scales in it's favour was it's ability to record 10 XLR microphone sources at the same time (with the 4 mic adaptor). Nothing against Tascam as I have loved their equipment over the years (especially the 680 series) but currently Zoom has generally been a few steps ahead of Tascam in sound quality (I prefer the Zoom sound over the current Tascam sound) and function while bringing upgrades to market at a reasonable price. My favourite Zoom is still my F8N but the H8 is a great portable handheld option especially with the extra microphone inputs. The H8 also has the advantage of allowing me to use all the adaptors that I purchased for my H6 thus saving me money for the specialty adaptors already owned. The H6 is a great backup for remotes when I don't need the extra microphones or when I need to record the same audio from multiple perspectives beyond ten microphones. An example being recording fireworks from two locations without wanting to run extended cabling from one recording to distant wired microphones. Although another option was to run wireless microphones and receive at a single recorder.
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Yup, waiting for that Zoom F3 review. Glad you mentioned it. 😂😂😂
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Looks like a nice gui on top of the legacy tascam recorders. The 32 bit is nice for event recordings where there is occasionally poorly setup music, which can be very loud but not something that you can always pre setup. Overall it's a nice option for those that this fits their workflow. Thanks
Thanks Barry. I do think the 32-bit float with dual converters moves it a tad ahead of their legacy tech.
Nice review thanks. I'm torn between the X8 and the Zoom F6 for recording rehearsals of classical music ensembles. 32 bit float is going to be a life saver so I'm sure either will be a big upgrade on a zoom h1!
I’d opt for the F6.
Hi Curtis, great review! (as always). I’m in the same situation - recording classical music (classical guitar specifically); is your preference for the Zoom F6 due to the quality of the preamps? Many Thanks.
This was excellent
Thanks.
Great review! It’s nice to learn about this device but it’s a little pricey considering it’s limitations. Glad I’ve got the F6!
👍 Happy recording!
Thank you so much for the excellent review; I've been waiting for your take on this unit. The X8 looks really interesting for many use cases, but I'm left wishing Tascam put the R&D into different areas. Personally, I'd rather have something like a Zoom H5 (smaller, more physical controls) but with improved preamps and headphone amp rather than 32bit recording and a big screen with lots of presets. The X8 looks like it might be a super versatile and popular device after a few minor revisions to fix it's early issues, but I'm left wondering if a Centrance Mixerface (top of my budget :-) might be a better option for my uses. Or maybe Zoom will upgrade the H5 with improved preamps :-) hope springs eternal! Anyway, thank you again so much for your excellent channel and review.
Thanks Don. I think it largely depends on what you record. 32-bit float on the Tascam for spoken word recording is quite good.
My ideal recorder at this form factor would be the H6 but with locking xlr inputs, locking faders, better preamps, better headphone amp and a quieter stereo mic. That's a lot I know but competitors offer all of that. What I like about the H6 is actually it's interface. Easy to control faders on the fly. Easy to arm/solo any track in the click of a button. The essentials are right in front of you and don't require a screen and menu to navigate.
well, at the rist of making these comments seem repetitive, thank you for the wonderful video Curtis! An amazing review of a pretty unique product!
Thanks Isaac.
Great review as always Curtis. We will publish our own look at the X8 in a few weeks (we got it alongside some Tascam headphones). I really liked my old DR700D, it didn't have the best pre-amps or the most features but it was so easy to operate, much more intuitive than our current Mix Pre 3 workhorse (especially in advanced mode). Anyway, we will see how things go with this one - my perspective is going to be more on ease of operation as I believe this unit is not designed for the same target audience as the Mix Pre or even the equivalent Zoom recorders.
P.S. did you see our Rycote mic review? we actually got them very early on but it took us forever to finish the review...
Looking forward to seeing your review! I haven't, will need to have a look at the Rycote review as well. 👍
Curtis, thanks for all the great information over the years. A quick question: any quality issues when converting from 32 to 16 bit? I like the idea of having the dynamic range of 32 bit float, but my final recordings must be a standard 16 / 44.1
No issues, just the normal general principles apply - do your processing of the audio while still in 32-bit float if you can, then when you get it sounding how you'd like, then export to 16-bit.
Thank you for mentioning the hum above 20kHz in the higher sample rate recordings. I was so excited about this recorder but going off the reviews it's just got too many issues to make me confident in buying it.
Yes, I wouldn't have noticed it since I do not usually record at 192kHz so we have to credit several audiophiles for pointing that out. I'm not sure why hum above 20kHz is a practical concern, but thought it should be mentioned.
@@curtisjudd the concern is more for sound design purposes. When you record in the ultrasonic range you need to re-pitch those sounds to bring them into the human hearing range. So the hum on the X8 at 25kHz (even dropped by one octave) would become about 12.5kHz, well within human hearing.
@@WilliamMorrisMusic fair point and I stand - happily - corrected. Thank you.
@@curtisjudd you're very welcome good sir. It is probably one of the more niche uses for the recorder, for a lot of users it won't be an issue at all.
Does the Portacapture have Mix Minus for USB or phone inputs?
No, not that I saw in the menus. But for USB, most of the call or podcast services automatically take care of that these days.
Im drooling right now
Hey Curtis lovely review as usual. I have always wanted to capture ambient sound for my videos in my rides. This fits the bill. And please re edit your pros you have repeated removable XY mic twice (unless I want to put it back on and remove it again to see it’s pros 😅)
Thanks and happy riding to you!
Thank you for your presentation.
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@@curtisjudd I was finally able to figure out how to record on the X8 from your presentation. Now am going to try to get recording connected to camera. Thank you
As usual a very nice thoroughly explained video.
But one question.
if I'm recording multi track. or doing live streaming.
can I send FX (like reverb) only to one specific channel?
channel 1 mic, channel 2 guitar, channel 3 bass
I only want to send it to the mic. is that possible?
I did not test this specifically, but I believe the answer is yes. In Manual mode, you can toggle reverb on in each channel menu. I would recommend you confirm with Tascam support to be certain.
Great review and demo but I think I'll stick with my Zoom H6, F8N and H3VR. I also use a Tascam 680 & 680 mk2, a DR-60D mkII, a DR-70D and a HDP2 so am familiar with both Zoom and Teac-Tascam units and have found both positives and negatives over time with both companies products. Lately I have found that the Zoom products seem just slightly better for my needs but I respect and use devices from both. Your reviews have helped me come to purchase decisions and kept me informed of the new products as they come available.
Thanks Chris. Happy recording!
I just bought the zoom H6. its ooooooold tech and very limiting as a multitrack, returning it asap, unfortunately. nice as a simple mic though.
Great info. Thanks!
Thanks Michael.
As of September 2022, one advantage being seen in the touchscreen interface is the ability to revise and enhance the feature set offered. In the last year it gained solo monitoring of inputs and channels, Bluetooth timecode support, and ability to store and retrieve configurations for input dynamics as well as three customized configurations created in the manual mode or other app modes. Supposedly other stability fixes were also made in the firmware, and on release it clearly needed some. But unlike devices whose operation is heavily defined by physical control elements, the touchscreen UI allowed them to push the device out and later revise and enhance its feature set. At first it wasn't clear how much they'd do that, and perhaps they're done now, but they probably don't have to finished as room for more improvements remain.
Thanks for the update.
@@curtisjuddReally appreciate your reviews, they're kinda the go-to trusted source for me and others..
So thought this might be best place to post update.
Not so related to the touchscreen interface, but it also gained the ability to serve a 32 bit interface to the computer...
And the price currently has a $100 (20%) discount from the $500 release price.
I'm suspecting that will stick, as it seems like where this quality level product should have been from the start... Just as your reaction to the initial price reflected.
My guess is they rushed it out unpolished at a high asking price to grab the opportunity. ...The launcher wheel in the UI always had those three empty spots that were begging for a future function, Now there are three user system configs that drop into those spots on the launcher.
Thanks for this review, Curtis. I wonder, is 32 bit float available if you record a podcast with 3 or 4 people? I ask, because I read somewhere, that 32 bit float is not available in the Podcast settings.
I've heard the same thing. I was wondering if recording in manual mode would be the solution for instead of the default "podcast" settings.
Plus I suppose Curtis would say it shouldn't be a sweat since its just talking heads that would be recorded.
I'm not positive as I didn't test this specific scenario. Probably best to contact TASCAM support to confirm.
Podcast recording app disappoints on this: It's 24bit 48khz recording exclusively.
Much worse...
If you have recording settings at 32bit float, and open up the podcast app, it bumps the device setup into 24b/48k, affecting all subsequent recording.
So you need to go back into the devices record settings and reset them after opening the podcast app.
Exploring the device after getting it...I was puzzled about how things kept getting reset. A thorough read of the manual told me the podcast app was exclusively 24b/48k, and examination showed it was undoing previous settings across all recording.
Awesome. Now Tascam and Zoom are on the same pace 😍. I really like the design of TASCAM Portacapture X8. The UI is absolutely simple yet futuristic.
I do like the UI quite a bit more on the X8 vs. the ZOOM H8 and H6.
Thank you for the review.. Now waiting for Zoom H6-II with 32 bit float, USB-C connection and faster bootup. For now, the Zoom H5 continues to be budget convenience king (along with F4 for more 'pro' work)
You're welcome. Happy recording!
Agree, I got the XLR-module for my H5. I can use it for lavs that do not require phantom power. With backup recording it will protect from clipping in most situations. The XLR inputs I use for boom mics. In a dialogue or interview setup it will give you three recordings of the same source, plenty to work with. The signal from the boom mic needs to be pretty hot, like Rode NTG5. Using the optional remote, removes handling noises. Adjusting gain is out with the remote but you can start, stop the recording and playback.
In addition, the H5 takes full size SD cards. microSDs are more fragile. Mini USBs are sturdier than micro, also a feature of H5. Why Zoom chose microUSB for H8 is beyond reason.
super useful review, would u recommend it based on sound quality preamps over the dr60 and the dr70 along to my deity smic 2s, just cause they're quite old recorders they seem to be more professional product idk
Not really, the preamps are not going to make things sound substantially better unless you are in a lot of situations where your audio clips and distorts. Then it would be worthwhile.
great video thanks! I've just bought the X8 and have a shoot coming up where they plan to use Tentacle Sync and send me audio timecode to sync up later in post. How do I mute the timecode monitor channel so I don't have it coming through the headphones?
I am very glad I watched this video before purchasing. The 192khz 32 bit is not really necessary for what I do and the other pitfalls were really deal killers for me, and I went with the Zoom H8 instead for its capsules and versatility.
Happy recording!
Curtis , you are our audio King , thank you so much for explaining everything so thoroughly to us mere mortals!! I can’t make a single audio related purchase without checking out your opinions first!
Let me ask you one thing my friend… I do a lot of video work with doctors, dentists and etc for social media… been using lavalier mics but wanted to step up my game , so I picked up a mkh 416 this week… would you say that this tascam would be a good combination with it?? I would use mostly for spoken word…
Thank you so much my friend
Yes, that should work nicely.
Formating the disk is VERY IMPORTANT - Thanks
Indeed.
Hi Curtis! Great video as always. Do I understand correctly at 13:54 that the Zoom F3 does have better pre-amps than this Tascam? (and therefore will get more out of the 32bit float with decent microphones). This Portacapture has a lot more features, the nice screen, the included mics etc, but I think I'd do with the bare bones F3. It's also cheaper, and if it does sound better I think that would make the F3 a no-brainer for me.
Hi Roger, no, I haven't tested the F3 yet, still waiting for my copy to arrive. However, if they use the same preamps as the F6, then yes, they'll surely have more dynamic range than the X8. I wouldn't say that they sound better, just to be precise.
@@curtisjudd fair enough, and thanks for the answer!
Very interesting video. Thanks. Will you be doing a review (and comparison) of the Zoom F3??
Yes, definitely planning to review the F3 once I get my copy.
Good job as usual. Seems to me that 32 bit is best as a single operator tool when you cannot mind the camera and and lighting and worry about things like Make up and what the talent is warning and the set and constantly monitor audio levels at the same time.
Yes, or when recording extremely dynamic sound effects.
Thank you very much for the review. One question , do you think is it possible to use it as a DAW to record different tracks ?(hearing the already recorded track and record another track)
In theory, yes, but I didn't test that functionality.
Looks grate. I will think upgrade my XR40 to one of this. :)
Happy recording!
Nice Video! Does Tascam plan to add more of the apps on the recorder? Or are the preinstalled the final ones? Any plans to try the AK-BT1 bluetooth remote control dongle too?
I don't know what Tascam plans to add. I am only borrowing this unit so I have not plans to add the bluetooth module.
Thanks for such a great review! Would you say this is generally better than the zoom H series (particularly the H8) or is zoom still ahead? I have a H8 and sound wise it’s great for the recordings I do for theatre, but the UI is such a faff and I never quite know how to hold it comfortably. Not sure whether it upgrade at some point…
i think its because we are all used to android smartphone interfaces. its a whole mental work to get used to analog interfaces and buttons. i got my dad's canon 7d , OMG i need the patience of a saint to navigate thru it.
If you're using the in-built microphones, I haven't compared the two head to head on that particular feature since I don't do a lot of recording with built-in microphones like that. I did generally like the Tascam UI, but I'm not sure I'd drop $500 just for that.
@@curtisjuddI think I might stick with my H8 then! It does me well for what I need. Thank you!
I have a bunch of recorders, but the X8 is probably the one I would keep if ai had to part all but one. It is a very good concept and gives you the most versaitility. A variety of inputs, a lot of ways you can attach mics to the recorder body. You also get a lot of functionality: it is a mixing board, a DSP processor, a mobile podcast studio. It can record 24 and 32 bit simultaneously. It has control apps for both iOS and Android. As audio interface it works both 24 or 32 bit now. Very- very close to perfect for my needs. And I am happy with the audio quality as well. Having said that I also have an F3 and an F8n Pro, and a few more. The X8 stacks up nicely. There are a few things in the software that could be improved on, but recording quality is on par. The only thing I find misleading is the headphone amplifier which is quity noisy. I thought it was preamp noise, but no, the recording is clean, just there is too much hiss in the headphones.
Glad it works well for you!
Hi Curtis...thanks for your unbiased videos. You channel is real gold.
If I may ask you. Does the 32bit float allow more agreesive post processing? I am wondering if I could think about it like recording 12 bit raw video which handle way more editing that other compressed format?? Thanks
Potentially, yes. You end up with potentially more dynamic range.
@@curtisjudd thanks 😊
I've been looking at the Zoom H recorders for a few years now and couldn't get my head around the fact that they still don't use USB C. So bought this immediately (can't use your links for EU), but did subscribe :-)
Happy recording!
Thanks for the video
You're welcome! Happy recording!
I can't wait until you do a review of the Zoom F3. Also the F8n Pro.
Both on preorder. 👍
Thank you Curtis, great review, for multitrack, can you record a guitar in the XLR and simultaneously record using the condenser mics ? Say for recording an acoustic duo with some aditional control over the guitars in post. Thanks
Yes
@@curtisjudd Many thanks 👍🏻
Could not wait for your review... I'm upgrading from the DR-100MK iii
It's sad they didn't include an INTERNAL LITHIUM BATTERY like the old version...
Oh, yes, I completely forgot about that. The DR-100mkII also had that.
Hey Curtis thank you for the video! Question about the 32bit float audio on this device. When you say it lacks range do you mean only when using the built in mics? Like if I used the XLR ports with other mics would it function more similar to something like an f3 or f6?
Yes, that was referring to the built-in mics
Hi Curtis, your content is incredibly helpful, and I appreciate your detailed and thoughtful approach. I’m currently setting up for ASMR recordings and facing challenges. I use two NT1 5th gen mics with my MBP, but they’re picking up too much external noise. After watching your videos and reading your responses, I’m considering switching to a Zoom F3 with two Rode NT5 mics. What are your thoughts on this setup?
Also, I’m realising that my old house, despite being on a quiet street, might not be ideal for these recordings. I’m following your editing tips and using RX, but any additional advice on improving my recording space or setup would be invaluable. Thank you so much!
Sound blankets and placing the mic as close as reasonably possible are my two biggest tips.
Thank you verymuch for the review. I have question, In TASCAM or in ZOOM Recorders they are having provision for XLR and 3.5 but Why not USB option for recording with external Microphones. Present world we ara able to use both XLR and USB microphones.
If they did, you would lose the 32-bit float capability of the recorder with the USB Microphone because the microphone has its own preamplifier and analogue to digital converter.
Thank you so much
Thanks dear curtis 💯
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Very much appreciate you taking a look at this. Some of your comments make me think that they only used a single A/D converter instead of using 2 to get a wider dynamic range. Of course, with previous Tascam recorders, the safety track option extends the dynamic range by 12dB, which can be handy in situations where this is needed. Personally, I'm most disappointed by the battery life. If you got about 4 hours with lithium batteries, that would suggest NiMH batteries would only get about 2 to 2.5 hours. This makes it a no-go for me, as I tend to use these types of recorders out in nature to get ambient recordings. My money would be better spent on a set of dedicated stereo mics to go with either my Tascam DR-44wl or DR-680mkII. (Something I have been considering, although not as convenient. Handling noise is another area of disappointment, especially since these devices are supposedly made to be held while recording.
Indeed exactly as i am thinking. Their stated Dynamic Range is only 112 dB ( Left completely out of public view for specifications and had to get through email contact with the engineering department )
For Reference these two other 32 Bit Float Recorders Zoom F6 has 132 dB Dynamic Range
Sound Devices Mix Pre 3 ii Series Dynamic Range is 142 dB.
So at 20 dB Dynamic Range Headroom Missing compared to a Zoom F6 and 30 dB ! vs Sound Devices Mix Pre ii... That's a whole LOT of missing Headroom!
So where and how did Tascam Engineers Fail at this and huge amount of missing Dynamic Range especially for 32Bit Float
@@BushMasterThermal likely in the analogue preamps.
Thanks Alan. The safety track recording feature increases headroom but not overall dynamic range. I believe that they used multiple converters per input, but the relatively lower dynamic range of this device vs. the Sound Devices MixPre II series is likely due to poorer quality analogue preamplifiers.
@@curtisjudd It's possible I misunderstood your comments regarding the dynamic range available, so I guess I'll watch for a comparison between this and another Tascam device to see if there's any advantage here in that regard. Regarding combining tracks to increase dynamic range, this requires special post processing and setting levels to put the louder portions of the track into the safety track (thus reducing the headroom normally reserved as a safety), but it can be done.
@@alantuttphotography Yes, understood. Note that with the safety track recording, it is potentially a bit of a compromise because on the track recorded at -12dB, the noise floor is potentially closer to the sound source, or at best, the noise floor is different and so the job of blending that can be somewhat complex. It really depends on how they implement the safety track recording feature. If they're just using a pad, it may not sound the same as if they actually used a second preamplifier with 12 dB less gain applied (like on the ZOOM F series recorders).
Hola Curtis! Muchas gracias por toda la información, ¿Es posible que realices un video usando la Zoom H4N Pro en podcast?
Saludos desde Chile
Hola Ramon. Gracias! Desafortunadamente, no tengo un Zoom H4n Pro a mano. ¿Hay alguna pregunta específica que pueda responder?
So in depth
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Hi Curtis, Are you planning on doing a video on the new Zoom F8n Pro? Thanks for the the great information! I love your channel.
Yes, definitely.
thank you for this video.. I've got a h4n and a babyface pro.. i'm thinking of trading it all in for this or the F6.. what would you recommend ? Seems like the F6 is a better device ( I have xlr mics ), but having built in mics seems to add a lot of portability...
Personally, I'd opt for the F6. But if you need built-in mics, the X8 is a decent option.
Hello. Thanks for the tutorial you published. I have a question:
The H8 zoom has a mixer with effects like Daily, Repeat and Reverb. Does the TASCAM Portacapture X8 have a mixer or not?🙏🙏
Yes, though not with all of the effects. It does have reverb, EQ, and a compressor.
@@curtisjudd thankyou very much
Thanks man.
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Thank you for a great review! You mention other recorders you have tested with lower self noise than the X8. Can't stretch to Sound Devices prices right now but if you have any thoughts on low self noise portable field recorders that would be really appreciated. I am considering a Zoom F3 to replace my H4N.
The ZOOM F3 would be a fantastic choice overall and definitely with lower self-noise.
Hey Curtis, if I were to choose between this and the Zoom F4 as my next recorder for filmmaking, which would you recommend more?
I, personally, would opt for the ZOOM F4, but it depends on what you plan to record.
Hi Curtis! Thank you for this great review.
Question - This seems to be the only 32bit float recorder I’ve seen that can record a 3.5mm stereo microphone.
Do you know of any other 32bit recorders with a stereo 3.5mm input?
I tried using the Zoom F2 with my Roland CS-10EM binaural microphone, but it summed it to mono.
The Sound Devices MixPre can also record stereo 3.5mm mics.
@@curtisjudd Great thank you for the reply! That one's a little out of my price range but good to know.
Think you will be reviewing the new ZOOM F8n Pro, Curtis? Curious to know what's been improved besides the 32 bit float.
Yes, I think so.
Thanks for this, Chris. I bought the X8 when it was launched (and waited almost 6 months for the import!), so I've been using it for a while. I am an audio journalist, spending most of my time recording long oral history interviews with lav mics running on 'plug-in power' (ME2s with 'AB' powering). So I'm not using much current, yet I have been very disppointed with battery life on the Tascam - I can really only reliably get a couple of hours before it shuts down. I've tried all types of batt, including lithium, alkaline and NiMih. This makes me nervous, so I find myself using the X8 only as the back-up recorder and have reverted to my DR100 as my main machine! Do you know if the recently launched firmware update is going to improve this aspect of the X8's operation? Having to carry an external USB battery pack kind of diminishes the convenience of a field recorder.
This is the cost of that big, beautiful screen, unfortunately. If you set it to dim quickly, that may help. Also, if you're recording at a sample rate higher than 48kHz, I'd reduce that to 48. But I don't foresee any other firmware changes substantially changing the battery performance.
I was looking to upgrade from my H4N Pro and I love the user interface of the X8 but the preamps seem no better for double the money so it's looking like the F6.
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Great review. I’ve heard Adobe Audition has limitations with 32-but float and data above 0db. Do you know what that is and whether issues will occur using this Tascam?
In my testing, Audition does not appear to have any issues with 32-bit float, even when the audio exceeds 0 dBFS.
Hey Curtis, thank you so much for this detailed review. I found this really helpful but I have one question that I’d love to ask if you don’t mind.. If your max budget is $1100 which 32bit float recorder would you recommend for someone who needs at least 4 XLR inputs (with phantom power) to record a Sennheiser Ambeo mic (and possibly other models of Ambisonic microphones).. ? Is the Zoom F6 the best bet ? or is it worth just going for the F8n Pro (I already have an F8n but I wish it had 32 but float capabilities.. it’s a tricky question but my gut says the F6 is the best option but if I’m spending the money should I just go a little deeper into the pockets for something from Sound Devices ?
I’d opt for the F8n Pro. I find the F6 a little frustrating to operate in terms of ergonomics, but that’s very subjective.
@@curtisjudd thanks for the reply man. I genuinely appreciate the advice. I think you’re right btw. While I can’t comment on the ergonomics of the F6, I have been a user of the old F8n for 3+ years and I find it very convenient and ergonomically pleasing. I imagine the pro is more or less identical aside from its 32bit capabilities ..? My only issue is that I was hoping for something a little smaller/lighter like the F6 but perhaps it’s not worth compromising quality and convenience for a few less ounces of hardware.. it’s also a bummer that the F6 doesn’t have combo inputs (XLR only). Is there any notable difference in the quality of the preamps with the F6 versus the F8n Pro ?
@@liamfoxobrien Yes, the Pro is basically the same except for the 32-bit float capability, though it does include a few other nuanced changes. We cover those here: czcams.com/video/8MfCY6d3ujk/video.html The preamps sound the same to me.
Very informative video, as usual. Still, would you recommend this audio recorder for concerts or is there a better option in this price range?
It could work for concerts, thought the included microphones seemed to produce quite a lot of self-noise. So if you're super picky, I'd recommend you look at some quality external microphones. Or if you're recording from a sound board, you'll just need to adjust the inputs to line level.
@@curtisjudd thank you!
Thanks Curtis! Would you recommend this portacapture over the Zoom F4 for field recording work? Does the 32 bit float offer any substantial upgrades in that department?
I'd personally opt for the F4.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for helping with this key advice :)
Hi Curtis, I'm on the market for a new field recorder. Do you think this one would be the best? My Zoom H6 packed in and I'm having trouble getting it repaired. Super vid here as always. I kinda knew the build of this would be a bit plastic.
It’s ok. Battery life isn’t as good as the ZOOM recorders, build isn’t amazing. I’d actually choose the ZOOM F3 or F6 for my work.
Have a Tascam X8 starting with wedding videography. Seen the Deity TC-1 timecode generator will this sync the X8 by plugging it into one of the audio ports. Don't know much about timecode, just learning. I know each camera has to have the timecode generator attached. So would I like the cameras simply attach the tc-1 to the Tascam Recorder?
Yes. But you'll need an app to convert the timecode recorded to mic inputs to timecode that an editing app can use to sync. DaVinci Resolve can do this. But my favorite app for this is Tentacle Sync Studio for Mac.
Buying one. Decision point 13:04 the recovery abilities are amazing.
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@@curtisjudd are use the affiliate link on the video. Very excited to get this. It will be replacing an old Tascam DR60D MKII.
@@GaryStockton 👍 Affiliate links are all up to date. Happy recording!
hello! the gain input can be controlled by the knob? around 4:51 you try to change the gain with the knob but it seems it doesnt allow you..? having to use the touch screen to manipulate such sensitive setting seems odd. could you please clarify its touch screen limitations? on a final question, does it come with a pop filter or a windshield for outdoor?
Not back then when I borrowed this for the review but Tascam has added several firmware updates since then. I'd recommend you contact them to confirm what it does now.
@@curtisjudd ty will do
Thank you for a comprehensive review Curtis. Not exactly related to the content, but will you please share the identity of the mounting plate you used, seen at about 15:13 in the video? Looks like a nice, large, accessible 1/4-20 thumb wheel within a frame that might also include additional attachment points for a battery tray or other useful accessories.
Thanks again,
- James
Audial Delta LLC
Manassas, VA
Hi James, yes, that's the Sound Devices Pix-base stand and I put a link for it in the description.